CN110650888B

CN110650888B - Handling system and method of use

Info

Publication number: CN110650888B
Application number: CN201880032131.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J·汉森
Original assignee: Hills Pte Ltd
Current assignee: Hills Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2017-03-15
Filing date: 2018-03-15
Publication date: 2022-03-01
Anticipated expiration: 2038-03-15
Also published as: JP7157465B2; CN110650888A; US11167824B2; JP2020514187A; AU2018233162B2; CA3056160A1; US20210114694A1; EP3595966A4; AU2018233162A1; WO2018165714A1; EP3595966A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a handling system and method for use with a load-bearing vehicle or structure for unloading, loading and storing a small vehicle or body from the load-bearing vehicle or structure. The system includes a cradle for supporting a small vehicle or body therein. The cradle is mounted to the load-carrying vehicle or structure and is configured to be pivotable between a tilted position, in which the small vehicle or body can be unloaded from or loaded into the cradle, and a horizontal position, in which the small vehicle or body is stored on the load-carrying vehicle or structure. The system further comprises at least one linear actuator for driving movement of the carriage between said inclined position and said horizontal position.

Description

Handling system and method of use

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a handling system for use with a load carrying vehicle or structure for unloading, loading and storing small vehicles and a method of use thereof.

Background

The use of Personal Watercraft (PWC), such as jet skis, water scooters and other watercraft on or in which riders sit or stand, is an increasingly popular recreational activity. Such PWCs can be easily deployed from or loaded onto trailers and transported from one body of water to another.

However, PWCs are less easily deployed or loaded from docks, such as private docks or pontoons outside of residences, and large vessels, such as luxury yachts.

Various systems have been developed to deploy and load PWCs from docks and large vessels.

For example, one such system includes a simple davit equipped with a manual or powered winch for raising or lowering a tethered PWC.

Another such system includes the use of a platform that is typically attached to the transom or transom of the vessel or to one side of the dock and is arranged to deploy or load the PWC vertically from a rear transverse position of the deck or transom of the vessel or from one side of the dock.

Existing systems for deploying and loading PWCs, particularly from large vessels, are often problematic in that, except in a flat condition, they are difficult and often unsafe to use, primarily because of the differences in movement between the PWC and the large vessel and the inability of these systems to guide and maintain the fore-aft movement of the PWC and quickly lift the PWC off the water.

Another problem with existing systems is that they are generally incompatible for use with multiple PWCs loaded or deployed in series from a dock or large vessel.

Yet another problem with existing systems is that they are complex and costly to manufacture and install.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method of use that may at least partially overcome at least one of the problems described above or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a handling system for use with a load carrying vehicle or structure for unloading, loading and storing a small vehicle or body, the system comprising:

a cradle for supporting the small vehicle therein, the cradle being configured to be mounted to the load-bearing vehicle or structure and pivotable between an inclined position in which the small vehicle or body can be unloaded from or loaded into the cradle and a horizontal position in which the small vehicle or body is held and stored in the cradle; and

at least one linear actuator for driving movement of the carriage between the inclined position and the horizontal position.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a handling system for use with a load carrying vehicle or structure for unloading, loading and storing a small vehicle or body, the system comprising:

a cradle for supporting the small vehicle or body therein, the cradle being configured to be pivotable between a tilted position in which the small vehicle or body can be unloaded from or loaded into the cradle and a horizontal position in which the small vehicle or body is held in the cradle;

a rotatable platform mounted to the carrying vehicle or structure to which the carriage is mounted, the platform being rotatable about a vertical axis by at least 90 ° between an operative position in which the carriage is pivotable and a storage position in which the small vehicle or body is stored on the carrying vehicle or structure; and

Advantageously, the system of the present invention enables a small vehicle or body to be easily and quickly unloaded from, loaded into, or stored on a load-bearing vehicle or structure. The pivotable bracket avoids the difficulties associated with tethers and davits of conventional small vehicles or body loading systems. Furthermore, the embodiment of the invention comprising a rotatable platform allows the system to be used for easily and quickly loading or unloading a plurality of small vehicles one after the other in all conditions except the most severe sea conditions.

A small vehicle or body may refer to any vehicle or body that is capable of being deployed from or loaded onto a large load-bearing vehicle. The small vehicle or body may be, for example, a manned or unmanned vehicle. Also, in some embodiments, the small vehicle or body may include at least one person, such as a driver.

In some embodiments, the small vehicle or body may comprise a motorcycle, a four-wheel locomotive, or a motorcycle scooter. In other embodiments, the small vehicle or body may comprise a Personal Watercraft (PWC), such as a jet ski.

The carrier vehicle may include any vehicle that is larger in size than the small vehicle or body and is configured to carry the small vehicle or body. For example, in some embodiments where the small vehicle or body is a motorcycle, four-wheel locomotive, or motorcycle scooter, the load-bearing vehicle may be a pick-up truck, pickup truck, or two-door coupe having a cargo pallet or space for receiving the small vehicle or body therein. In other embodiments where the small vehicle or body is a PWC, the carrying vehicle may preferably be a large vessel, such as a yacht, landing boat, ro-ro ship, barge, offshore tender, rescue vessel, or the like.

As used herein, the term "structure" may refer to any fixed structure from which a small vehicle or body may be unloaded, loaded, and stored. Typically, the structure may be a pontoon, pier or quay.

The cradle may be of any suitable size, shape and configuration, and may be formed of any suitable material or materials for supporting a small vehicle or body therein. Generally, the carrier may be formed from one or more metal and/or plastic materials, preferably aluminium. The bracket may have a unitary construction or may be formed from two or more bracket members.

Generally, the bracket may have a substantially flat and elongated shape. The bracket may include an upper surface, an opposing lower surface, an outer end, an opposing inner end, and opposing longitudinal sides.

The inclined position may preferably be a position in which the outer end of the carriage rests at least partially on a support surface, or is at least partially immersed in a body of water, to facilitate loading or unloading of the small vehicle or body. The horizontal position may preferably be a substantially lateral or horizontal position of the carrier.

In some embodiments, the bracket may be in the form of an elongated plate. The upper and lower surfaces may extend substantially parallel to each other and be interconnected by opposing edges including an outer end edge, an opposing inner end edge, and opposing longitudinal side edges. In some embodiments, the panel may include a concave profile for accommodating a small vehicle or body.

In other embodiments, the bracket may be in the form of a frame formed from two or more frame members joined together.

For example, the frame may include at least one pair of parallel frame members extending longitudinally between an outer end and an inner end. The pair of parallel frame members may be joined together by one or more transversely extending transverse frame members. Typically, the frame members may be joined together using conventional welding techniques or by one or more mechanical fasteners (preferably the former).

The frame member may have a tubular or solid construction and may have a substantially circular or rectangular cross-section, preferably a tubular construction having a substantially rectangular cross-section.

In some preferred embodiments, the frame may comprise a pair of inner parallel frame members and a pair of outer parallel frame members extending longitudinally between the outer and inner ends of the bracket and joined together by at least three transversely extending transverse frame members. The pair of outer frame members may preferably define opposite longitudinal sides of the bracket, and the innermost and outermost transverse frame members may each define an inner end and an outer end of the bracket, respectively.

In other preferred embodiments, the frame may include a pair of U-shaped frame members extending longitudinally between the outer and inner ends of the bracket and joined together by at least three laterally extending transverse frame members. Each U-shaped frame member may include a pair of nose portions at the inner ends of the brackets, a U-shaped portion at the outer ends of the brackets and defining the outer ends of the brackets, and a pair of frame member portions extending longitudinally between the nose portions and the U-shaped portion. The pair of frame member portions may include: an outer frame member portion defining longitudinal sides of the bracket, and an inner frame member portion extending parallel to the outer frame member portion. The at least three cross frame members may be spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the pair of U-shaped frame members, preferably a first cross frame member defines the inner end of the bracket and the second and third cross frame members are spaced apart between the inner and outer ends of the bracket.

In some embodiments, the cradle may include one or more rollers to help guide the small vehicle or body onto and off of the cradle, preferably in an end-to-end direction.

The rollers may be of any suitable size and shape and may be located at any suitable position on the upper surface of the carriage. The roller may preferably be a freely rotating roller.

Typically, the carriage may comprise a plurality of rollers, typically mounted on an upper surface of the carriage. The rollers may preferably be arranged continuously along the longitudinal length of the carrier, preferably spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the carrier. In some embodiments, the roller is pivotally mounted to allow the angle of the roller to be adjusted.

In some embodiments, the one or more rollers may be arranged continuously along a centerline of the carriage. For example, in some such embodiments, the rollers may be mounted between a pair of inner parallel frame members extending longitudinally between the outer and inner ends of the carriage. In other such embodiments, the rollers may be mounted between inner frame member portions of a pair of U-shaped frame members extending longitudinally between outer and inner ends of the carriage. In such an embodiment, the rollers may preferably be flanged rollers.

In other embodiments, the rollers may be arranged parallel along or adjacent to opposite sides of the carriage. In such embodiments, the rollers may preferably be angled or pivoted inwardly. In general, each roller may be mounted to a transverse frame member and/or, in some embodiments, to the U-shaped portion of a pair of U-shaped frame members, preferably near the sides of the carriage.

In some preferred embodiments, the rollers may be arranged along the centerline of the cradle as described above, and along or adjacent to opposite sides of the cradle in parallel as described above.

In some embodiments, the carrier may include a transport mechanism for transporting the small vehicles or bodies onto and off of the carrier, preferably in an end-to-end direction.

The transport mechanism may be of any suitable size, shape and form and may be located in or on the carrier at any suitable location.

In general, the conveyor mechanism may be located on or extend across the upper surface of the carrier, preferably along a centre line of the carrier extending between the inner and outer ends.

For example, in some embodiments, the transport mechanism may be in the form of one or more powered or driven rollers. One or more power or driven rollers may be driven in any suitable manner, typically by an operatively associated drive motor, preferably an electric motor.

In other embodiments, the conveying mechanism may be in the form of a conveyor belt extending over and between opposed pulleys located at or near each end of the carriage and supported therebetween by one or more freely rotating rollers, preferably grooved rollers. Typically, the pulleys may include a main pulley at or near an inner end of the carriage and a tail pulley at or near an outer end of the carriage. Typically, at least one of the pulleys may be a powered or driven pulley for driving the movement of the conveyor belt, which is preferably a primary pulley. Typically, the power or driven pulley is operatively associated with a drive motor, which is preferably an electric motor.

The conveyor belt may typically be formed from one or more flexible elastomeric materials, such as rubber or plastic.

In some embodiments, the outer surface of the conveyor belt may include a textured surface to help grip a small vehicle or body.

Also, in other embodiments, the outer surface of the conveyor belt may include a plurality of outwardly projecting ridges to assist in gripping a small vehicle or body. The protruding ridges may be arranged on the outer surface of the conveyor belt in any suitable arrangement.

For example, in some embodiments, the protruding ridges may extend laterally across the outer surface of the conveyor belt.

In other embodiments, the protruding ridges may be angled across the outer surface of the conveyor belt.

In still other embodiments, the protruding ridges may be arranged in a chevron extending in a common direction along the length of the outer surface of the conveyor belt.

In a preferred embodiment, the protruding ridges may be arranged in opposing or converging diagonal pairs. In some such embodiments, the opposing or converging diagonal pairs may define a space therebetween for at least partially receiving a portion or portion of a small vehicle or body.

For example, in embodiments where the small vehicle or body is a motorcycle, each tire of the motorcycle may be at least partially received between opposing or converging diagonal pairs to at least partially facilitate maintaining the motorcycle in an upright position when the motorcycle is unloaded, loaded or stored on the carrier.

For example, in embodiments where the small vehicle or body is a PWC, the keel of the PWC may be at least partially received between opposing or converging diagonal pairs to at least partially facilitate maintaining the PWC in an upright position when the PWC is unloaded, loaded or stored on the cradle.

The bracket may be mounted to the load-bearing vehicle or structure in any suitable manner to allow the bracket to be pivotable, typically by an inner end, between an inclined position and a horizontal position, such that the outer end may be pivoted between the inclined position and the horizontal position. For example, the bracket may be pivotally mounted, directly or indirectly, to a load-bearing vehicle or structure.

In some embodiments, the inner end of the bracket may be hingedly connected or coupled to a carrying vehicle or structure, preferably the outer edge of the carrying vehicle or structure.

In other embodiments, for example, the bracket may be pivotally mounted to one or more bracket mounts, each bracket mount being secured in place on the load-bearing vehicle or structure.

Conversely, in yet other embodiments, one or more cradle mounts may be secured to the cradle, and each cradle mount may be pivotally mounted to the carrying vehicle or structure.

Each tray support may be of any suitable size, shape and configuration and may preferably be attached to the inner end of the tray in any suitable manner.

For example, in some embodiments, the bracket may include one or more bearings at or near the inner end, and each bracket mount may include a bracket connectable to a load-carrying vehicle or structure, and one or more pivot pins for securing the bearings to each bracket at the inner end of the bracket. Each bearing may or may not include a polymer bushing.

In other embodiments, the cradle supports may each include a bearing. Likewise, the bearing may or may not include a polymer bushing. The inner end of the bracket may include one or more pivot pins for securing the inner end of the bracket to each bearing associated with each bracket mount.

In some embodiments, the cradle support may be slidably attached to the load-bearing vehicle or structure, preferably in a linear arrangement to an upper surface of the load-bearing vehicle or structure. The cradle support may be slidably attached to the load-bearing vehicle or structure in any suitable manner. For example, each cradle support may be slidably connected to a shaped groove or channel extending linearly over the upper surface of the load-bearing vehicle or structure. Each carrier support may preferably be capable of being retained and slid within a shaped groove or channel such that the carrier support is capable of moving along the shaped groove or channel but is prevented from separating from the shaped groove or channel.

In such embodiments, the cradle support may preferably be slidable in a linear direction between a position adjacent an edge of the upper surface of the load-bearing vehicle or structure and a retracted position away from the edge.

For example, in embodiments where the load-bearing vehicle is a pick-up truck, a two-door coupe having a cargo pallet or space for receiving a small vehicle or body therein, the cradle mount may be slidably mounted to the cargo pallet and may slide in a linear direction between a position adjacent a rear edge of the cargo pallet and a retracted position away from the edge.

In other embodiments where the load carrying vehicle is a yacht, the cargo support may be slidably mounted to an upper surface, preferably the tail, of the yacht and may slide between a position adjacent an edge of the upper surface and a retracted position away from the edge.

In still other embodiments where the structure is a pontoon, pier or pier, the cargo support may be slidably mounted to an upper surface of the pontoon, pier or pier and may be slidable between a position adjacent an edge of the upper surface and a retracted position away from the edge.

Advantageously, by having a slidable cargo support, the pallet can be slid with the pallet support into a retracted position when in a horizontal position for storing small vehicles or bodies when loaded or for storing pallets when unloaded.

In other embodiments, the carriage support may be slidably attached to the lower surface of the carriage, preferably in a linear arrangement extending between the inner and outer ends of the carriage. Each cradle mount may in turn be pivotally mounted to the load-bearing vehicle or structure, preferably at or near an edge of the upper surface of the load-bearing vehicle or structure.

Likewise, the carriage support may be slidably connected to the carriage in any suitable manner. For example, each tray support may be slidably connected to a shaped groove or channel that extends linearly along the lower surface of the tray. Each carrier support may preferably be capable of being retained and slid within a shaped groove or channel such that the carrier support is capable of moving along the shaped groove or channel but is prevented from separating from the shaped groove or channel.

In such embodiments, the cradle support is slidable towards the inner end of the cradle to enable the cradle to pivot between an inclined position and a horizontal position for unloading or loading the small vehicle or body. The pallet supports can be slid towards the outer ends of the pallets when in a horizontal position for storing small vehicles or bodies when loaded or for storing pallets when unloaded.

In other embodiments, the bracket may be pivotally mounted to the load-bearing vehicle or structure by a connection mechanism or a portion of a connection mechanism. For example, a first portion of the connection mechanism associated with the inner end of the bracket may mate or engage with a second portion of the connection mechanism associated with the load-bearing vehicle or structure (typically the upper surface of the load-bearing vehicle structure).

The connection mechanism may comprise mateable male and female portions pivotally coupled together, for example comprising an interference fit connection. The connection mechanism may include a male structure associated with the inner end of the bracket that is configured to be inserted into or coupled with a female structure associated with the load-bearing vehicle or structure. In turn, the connection mechanism may include a female structure associated with the inner end of the bracket that is configured to at least partially receive or couple with a male structure associated with the load-bearing vehicle or structure.

As noted above, in some embodiments, the cradle may be pivotally mounted to a rotatable platform that is rotatable about a vertical axis by at least 90 ° between an operating position in which the cradle is pivotable and a storage position in which the small vehicle or body is stored on a carrying vehicle or structure.

The rotatable platform may be of any suitable size, shape and configuration and may be formed from any suitable material or materials. Likewise, the carriage may be pivotally mounted to the rotatable platform in any suitable manner.

Typically, the rotatable platform may be formed from one or more metal and/or plastics materials, preferably steel, more preferably marine grade steel. The rotatable platform may preferably be formed from two or more platform members.

In general, a rotatable platform may include a non-rotating lower portion secured to a load-bearing vehicle or structure and a rotatable upper portion rotatably coupled to the non-rotating lower portion such that the upper portion may rotate relative to the lower portion. The bracket may preferably be pivotally mounted to the rotatable upper part.

The non-rotating lower portion may be of any suitable size, shape and configuration to secure to a load-bearing vehicle or structure. Typically, the non-rotating lower portion may be in the form of a plate. The plate may have a substantially circular or polygonal shape. The plate may have opposing surfaces extending substantially parallel to each other, including a lower surface and an opposing upper surface. The opposing surfaces may be interconnected by at least one edge. Generally, the panel may include one or more openings for receiving one or more mechanical fasteners therethrough to fasten the panel to a load-bearing vehicle or structure.

In some embodiments, the panel may include at least one sidewall extending upwardly from at least one edge. The at least one side wall may extend at least partially around the perimeter (preferably the entire perimeter) of the lower portion.

Similarly, the rotatable upper portion may have any suitable size, shape and configuration to be rotatably and pivotally mounted to the carriage relative to the lower portion. The upper portion may have the same or different size and shape as the lower portion.

Typically, the upper portion, like the lower portion, may also be in the form of a plate. The plate may have a substantially circular or polygonal shape. The plate may have opposing surfaces extending substantially parallel to each other, including a lower surface and an opposing upper surface. The opposing surfaces may be interconnected by at least one edge. In some embodiments, the panel may include at least one sidewall extending downwardly from at least one edge to at least partially conceal the lower portion. The at least one sidewall may extend at least partially around a perimeter of the upper portion.

The upper portion may be rotatably coupled to the lower portion in any suitable manner.

Typically, the upper and lower portions may be coupled together by a central shaft extending therebetween. The central shaft may extend longitudinally between two opposing ends and may have a substantially circular cross-section. The central shaft may be fixedly mounted at a first end to one of the upper and lower portions and rotatably mounted at an opposite second end to the other of the upper and lower portions, preferably by means of a rotary bearing or a support comprising a rotary bearing.

As mentioned above, the bracket is mounted to the rotatable platform, preferably pivotally mounted, such that the bracket can pivot between an inclined position and a horizontal position.

Furthermore, the carriage may be pivotally mounted to the rotatable platform in any suitable manner, typically by an inner end.

In some embodiments, the inner end of the bracket may be hingedly connected or coupled to the rotatable platform, preferably an edge portion of the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform.

In other embodiments, the carriage may be pivotally mounted to one or more carriage supports, each carriage support being secured in place on the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform.

Conversely, in still other embodiments, one or more carrier supports may be secured to the carrier, and each carrier support may be pivotally mounted to the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform.

For example, in some embodiments, the bracket may comprise one or more bearings at or near the inner end, and each bracket mount may comprise a bracket connectable to the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform, and one or more pivot pins for securing the bearings to each bracket at the inner end of the bracket. Each bearing may or may not include a polymer bushing.

In some embodiments, the stand support may be slidably connected to the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform or the stand, as previously described.

In other embodiments, the bracket may be pivotally mounted to the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform by a connection mechanism or a portion of a connection mechanism. For example, a first portion of the connection mechanism associated with the inner end of the bracket may mate or engage with a second portion of the connection mechanism associated with the rotatable upper portion (typically the edge portion of the rotatable upper portion) of the rotatable platform.

The connection mechanism may comprise mateable male and female portions pivotally coupled together, for example comprising an interference fit connection. The connection mechanism may comprise a male formation associated with the inner end of the bracket, the male formation being configured to be inserted into or coupled with a female formation associated with the rotatable upper portion. In turn, the connection mechanism may comprise a female structure associated with the inner end of the bracket, the female structure being configured to at least partially receive or couple with a male structure associated with the rotatable upper portion.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner edge of the carrier may be hingedly connected to an edge portion of the rotatable upper portion of the rotatable platform.

For example, in one such embodiment, the rotatable upper edge portion may include at least one protruding connecting member having a central aperture therethrough, and the inner edge of the cradle may similarly include at least two protruding connecting members, wherein each connecting member has a central aperture therethrough and is configured to intermesh with the at least one protruding connecting member of the edge portion and be secured together when in common alignment by at least one pivot pin received through the central aperture.

In another such embodiment, the rotatable upper edge portion may include at least two projecting connecting members each having a central aperture therethrough, and the inner edge of the carrier may similarly include at least one projecting connecting member having a central aperture therethrough and configured to intermesh with the at least two projecting connecting members of the edge portion and be secured together when in common alignment by at least one pivot pin received through the central aperture.

In a preferred such embodiment, the four projecting end portions of the frame forming the carrier may each have a central aperture therethrough and be configured to intermesh with at least three projecting connecting members extending along the edge portion of the rotatable upper portion and each having a central aperture therethrough. When co-aligned, the protruding end and the protruding connecting member may be secured together by at least one pivot pin received through the central bore.

As mentioned above, the movement of the carriage between the tilted position and the horizontal position may be driven by at least one linear actuator. The at least one linear actuator may be of any suitable size, shape and form and may be associated with the carriage and the carrying vehicle, structure or rotatable platform in any suitable manner for movement between the extended and retracted positions and for driving movement of the carriage between the inclined and horizontal positions.

For example, the linear actuator may be moved manually between positions, or may be driven by an electric motor, for example. For example, the linear actuator may be a pneumatic or hydraulic ram. In turn, the linear actuator may be a servo motor or a stepper motor configured to pivot the carriage between the tilted position and the horizontal position. In some embodiments, the linear actuator may be a rigid chain actuator (also referred to as a linear chain actuator, a push-pull chain actuator, an electric chain actuator, a zip-type actuator, or a cylindrical chain actuator). In other embodiments, the linear actuator may be a screw jack or screw actuator, either manual or powered.

For example, a linear actuator may be pivotally coupled to each of the carriage and the load-bearing vehicle, structure, or rotatable platform to pivot the carriage between the tilted position and the horizontal position. The linear actuator may preferably be pivotally coupled to each of the carriage and the load carrying vehicle, structure or rotatable platform by a mounting bracket respectively located on each. In one embodiment, at least one mounting bracket is secured to the upper or lower surface of the bracket. In a preferred embodiment, at least one mounting bracket is secured to a lower surface of the bracket. Preferably, the two mounting brackets are fastened to the lower surface of the bracket. In another embodiment, at least one mounting bracket is secured to a lower surface of the carriage, and at least one linear actuator for moving the carriage between a tilted position and a horizontal position extends between the at least one mounting bracket and an interior of the rotatable platform. In an alternative embodiment, the handling system comprises two linear actuators and two mounting brackets secured to the lower surface of the carriage, each actuator extending between a mounting bracket on the lower surface of the carriage and the interior of the rotatable platform.

Typically, the linear actuator may be in the form of a hydraulic ram which may extend between a portion of the carriage and a portion of the load carrying vehicle, structure or rotatable platform to pivot the carriage between the inclined position and the horizontal position.

For example, in some embodiments, the linear actuator may extend between a position on the lower surface of the carriage and a portion of the carrying vehicle, structure, or rotatable platform to pivot the carriage between a tilted position when the linear actuator is retracted and a horizontal position when the linear actuator is extended.

In other embodiments, the linear actuator may extend between a position on the upper surface of the carriage and a portion on the carrying vehicle, structure or rotatable platform to pivot the carriage between a tilted position when the linear actuator is extended and a horizontal position when the linear actuator is retracted.

In a preferred embodiment, the linear actuator may extend at least partially along one side of the upper surface of the carriage. In a more preferred embodiment, the system may include at least two linear actuators, each extending at least partially along opposite sides of the upper surface of the carriage to pivot the carriage between the inclined position and the horizontal position.

The at least two linear actuators may generally extend between a mounting bracket secured to an upper surface of the bracket and a mounting bracket secured to an upper surface of a load-bearing vehicle, structure, or rotatable platform. Each linear actuator may be pivotally coupled at both ends to a respective mounting bracket.

One or more mounting brackets on the bracket may extend generally upwardly from a location on or near the upper surface side, preferably near the inner end of the bracket.

Similarly, one or more mounting brackets on the load-bearing vehicle, structure or rotatable platform may extend upwardly from the upper surface, typically at a location at or near an edge or portion connected to the bracket.

The mounting bracket and the at least one linear actuator may be pivotally coupled together in any suitable manner. However, in general, the at least one actuator may include a bearing at each end that is configured to be secured to an opening in a respective mounting bracket by, for example, a pivot pin.

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise an actuation mechanism for rotating the upper portion of the rotatable platform relative to the lower portion between the operating position and the storage position. Any suitable type of actuation mechanism may be used. For example, the actuation mechanism may be actuated manually or by using a drive system.

For example, when manually actuated, the actuation mechanism may include an operable handle or crank associated with one or more gears or cogwheels operatively associated with a central shaft extending between the upper and lower portions of the rotatable platform. One or more gears or cogwheels may be configured to mesh with each other when the handle or crank is turned and transmit torque to the central shaft, thereby rotating the upper portion of the rotatable platform relative to the lower portion.

In some embodiments, the drive system may include a drive motor, such as an electric motor or an internal combustion engine, operatively associated with the central shaft to rotate the central shaft. Typically, the shaft of the drive motor may be interconnected with the central shaft by one or more gears, chains, pulleys, belts or other linkages, and one or more clutches may also optionally be used. Preferably, the drive motor may be interconnected with the central shaft by one or more gears, which may be capable of driving the rotation of the central shaft at different rotational speeds and/or in different rotational directions.

In other embodiments, the drive system may include: a crank or lever arm extending perpendicularly from the central shaft; and at least one linear actuator pivotally coupled to an outer end of the crank or lever arm and an inner periphery of a lower portion of the rotatable platform. The linear actuator may be of any suitable form as described above. Reciprocating movement of the linear actuator between the extended position and the retracted position may impart a rotational movement to the central shaft to rotate the upper portion relative to the lower portion of the rotatable platform. In other embodiments, the drive system comprises an actuator selected from the group consisting of: the reduction gear consisting of a worm shaft and a worm wheel drives either the planetary reduction gear of the rotatable upper part between the operating position and the storage position, wherein the planetary reduction gear is driven manually or by a motor selected from the group consisting of hydraulic, pneumatic and electric motors.

In some embodiments, the bracket may further comprise at least one load cell configured to measure the weight of a small vehicle or body supported therein.

The at least one load cell may be of any suitable form and may be associated with the bracket in any suitable manner. For example, the at least one load cell may be a strain load cell, a piezoelectric load cell, a hydraulic load cell or a pneumatic load cell, preferably a strain-type load cell.

In use, the at least one load cell may be used to determine whether the carriage is overloaded.

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise at least one amplifier for amplifying the output electrical signal from the at least one load cell. The at least one amplifier may be operatively connected to the at least one load cell via circuitry.

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise an analog-to-digital converter for converting the amplified output electrical signal from the at least one amplifier from an analog signal to a digital signal. The analog-to-digital converter may be operatively connected to the at least one amplifier via circuitry.

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise a microcomputer comprising one or more processors and memory for receiving and processing the digital signals from the analog-to-digital converter, calculating the weight of the small vehicle or body loaded onto the carrier, determining whether the calculated weight exceeds the capacity of the carrier, optionally generating a signal to alert a user based on the determination, and/or optionally disabling operation of the system (e.g., isolating the at least one linear actuator and/or drive system).

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise a power source. The power source may include an onboard power source, such as one or more batteries, and/or may receive power from an external power source.

The system may include a communication module for connecting the system to external devices, such as external processing devices (e.g., computers, tablets, smart phones, smart watches, or PDAs), external displays, printers, or storage devices (e.g., hard drives). The system may be connected to the external device in any suitable manner.

For example, the communication module may be in the form of a port or access point (e.g., a USB or micro-USB port) such that the jack may be connected to an external device using a suitable cable.

For example, the communication module may be in the form of a wireless communication module, such as a wireless network interface controller, such that the system may wirelessly connect to external devices over a wireless network (e.g., Wi-fi (wlan) communication, RF communication, infrared communication, or Bluetooth @).

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise a controller for controlling operation of at least the linear actuator to control movement of the carriage between the tilted position and the horizontal position. In some embodiments, the controller may further control operation of the drive motor to control operation of the transport mechanism. In some embodiments, the controller may further control operation of the drive system to control rotation of the rotatable platform between the operating position and the storage position. The controller may have any suitable size, shape and configuration.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller may be a remote control configured to be held by a user. The remote control may be a wired remote control or a wireless remote control. The remote control may include one or more keys, buttons or dials for controlling various aspects of the function of the at least one linear actuator and/or drive system. In some embodiments, the remote control may further comprise a display screen for displaying operating information of the system, for example the weight of the small vehicle or body and/or the operating position of the cradle and/or rotatable platform.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of unloading or loading a small vehicle or body from a load-bearing vehicle or structure using the system of the first aspect, the method comprising:

pivoting the cradle to a tilted position in which the small vehicle or body can be unloaded from or loaded onto the cradle.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of unloading or loading a small vehicle or body from a load-bearing vehicle or structure using the system of the second aspect, the method comprising:

rotating the carriage to an operating position; and

The method may include one or more features or characteristics of a system as described above, including a carriage and a rotatable platform.

In some embodiments, rotating may generally include operating a rotatable platform to rotate the upper portion relative to the lower portion to rotate the carriage. The rotation may be driven manually by using an actuating mechanism such as an operable handle or crank. The rotation, in turn, may be powered by a drive system as previously described.

The pivoting may typically be driven by at least one linear actuator operatively associated with the carriage to drive movement of the carriage between the horizontal and inclined positions. Typically, the pallet may be pivoted to an inclined position in which the outer end of the pallet is at least partially against a support surface or at least partially immersed in a body of water to facilitate loading or unloading of the small vehicle or body.

Once the tray has been pivoted to the tilted position, the small vehicle or body can be unloaded or loaded from the tray.

In some embodiments, the method may include returning the tray to a horizontal position and/or rotating the tray to a storage position to reload the tray with another small vehicle or body to be unloaded from the load-bearing vehicle or structure.

Any feature described herein may be combined with any one or more other features described herein in any combination within the scope of the invention.

There is no prior art reference in this specification, and no admission or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

Drawings

Preferred features, embodiments and variants of the invention can be seen from the following detailed description, which provides sufficient information for a person skilled in the art to carry out the invention. This detailed description is not to be taken as limiting the scope of the foregoing summary in any way. The detailed description will refer to the following several figures:

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate side and front views, respectively, of a handling system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 2A to 2C show a cross-sectional side view, a bottom view and a top view, respectively, of a portion of the handling system shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B; and

fig. 3A and 3B show a front view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a handling system according to another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4A to 4F show simplified schematic diagrams of a method of loading a jet ski boat onto a ship using the loading and unloading system of fig. 1A to 3B, respectively. Fig. 4A to 4F are not drawn to scale.

Fig. 5A to 5F show various views of a handling system according to a further embodiment of the invention. Fig. 5A is a side view. Fig. 5B is a plan view. Fig. 5C is a cross-sectional end view. Fig. 5D is an end view. FIG. 5E illustrates a portion of the handling system shown in FIG. 5A. Fig. 5F shows a portion of the handling system as shown in fig. 5B.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1A and 1B illustrate a loading and unloading system 100 for unloading, loading and storing a small vehicle or body, such as a motorcycle or a Personal Watercraft (PWC), on a load-bearing vehicle or structure, such as a pick-up truck, yacht, large watercraft, pontoon, pier or dock, according to one embodiment of the invention.

Referring to fig. 1A and 1B, a handling system 100 includes: a bracket 110, the bracket 100 for supporting the small vehicle or the main body therein and pivoting between an inclined position for unloading or loading the small vehicle or the main body and a horizontal position for storing the small vehicle or the main body therein; and a rotatable platform 120 hingedly connected to the carriage 110, the platform 120 being mounted to the load-bearing vehicle or structure and being rotatable about a vertical axis by at least 90 ° between an operative position in which the carriage 110 is pivotable and a storage position in which the small vehicle or body is stored on the load-bearing vehicle or structure. The handling system 100 further comprises: two hydraulic rams 130 for driving movement of the carriage 110 between the inclined position and the horizontal position; and an actuating mechanism 140 (shown only in fig. 2A and 2B) for rotating the rotatable platform 120 between the operating position and the storage position.

The bracket 110 has a substantially flat and elongated shape and includes an upper surface 112, an opposing lower surface 114, an outer end 116, an opposing inner end 118, and opposing longitudinal sides 115.

Referring to fig. 1B, the bracket 110 includes a frame formed of two or more frame members joined together. The frame member has a tubular configuration and has a substantially rectangular cross-section.

Specifically, the frame includes a pair of U-shaped frame members 210, the pair of U-shaped frame members 210 extending longitudinally between the outer end 116 and the inner end 118 of the bracket 110 and being joined together by three transversely extending transverse frame members 220.

Each U-shaped frame member 210 includes: a pair of protruding ends 212 at the inner end 118 of the bracket 110; a U-shaped portion 214 located at the outer end 116 of the bracket 110 and defining the outer end 116 of the bracket 110; and a pair of frame member portions 216 extending longitudinally between the nose portion 212 and the U-shaped portion 214. The pair of frame member portions 216 includes: an outer frame member portion 216a defining the longitudinal side 115 of the bracket 110; and an inner frame member portion 216b extending parallel to the outer frame member portion 216 a.

At least three cross frame members 220 are spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the pair of U-shaped frame members 210, with a first cross frame member 220a defining the inner end 118 of the bracket 110, and second and third cross frame members 220 spaced apart between the inner end 118 and the outer end 116 of the bracket 110.

As shown, the carriage 110 includes a plurality of rollers 150 on the upper surface 112 of the carriage 110 to help guide a small vehicle or body onto and off of the carriage 110.

The rollers 150 are free-rotating rollers and are arranged in series along the centerline of the carriage 110 and opposite sides of the upper surface 112.

Rollers 150, arranged in series along opposite sides of the upper surface 112 of the carriage 110, are pivotally mounted and angled inwardly.

Rollers 150, arranged in series along the centerline of the carriage 110, are mounted between the inner frame member portions 216b of each U-shaped frame member 210 and are flanged rollers to help guide at least a portion or part of a small vehicle or body, such as a tire of a motorcycle or a keel of a PWC, along the centerline of the carriage 110 when loading or unloading.

Referring to fig. 2A, the rotatable platform 120 includes: a non-rotating lower portion 122 configured to be secured to an upper surface of a load-bearing vehicle or structure; a rotatable upper portion 124; and a central shaft 126 extending therebetween that is fixedly mounted to the rotatable upper portion 124 and rotatably coupled to the non-rotatable lower portion 122 by a mount 128 that includes a rotational bearing.

Referring to fig. 2A and 2B, the non-rotating lower portion 122 includes a substantially circular base 230 (i.e., a plate) and a sidewall 232 extending upward from an edge of the base 230. The sidewall 232 extends around the perimeter of the base 230. The base 230 includes openings for receiving mechanical fasteners therethrough to fasten the base 230 to an upper surface of a load-bearing vehicle or structure.

Referring to fig. 2A and 2C simultaneously, the swivel upper portion 124 similarly includes a base 240 (i.e., a plate). As best shown in fig. 2C, the base 240 includes a rim portion 242, and the bracket 110 is mounted to the rim portion 242. A sidewall 244 extends downwardly from the remaining edge of the base 240 to at least partially conceal the non-rotating lower portion 122, as best shown in fig. 2A.

Referring again to fig. 1B, the carriage 110 is hingedly connected to the rotatable platform 120 such that the carriage 110 can pivot between a tilted position and a horizontal position.

The inner end 118 of the bracket 110 is hingedly connected to the edge portion 242 of the rotating upper portion 124 of the rotatable platform 120.

Specifically, the four protruding ends 212 at the inner end 118 of the bracket 110 each have a central aperture therethrough and are configured to intermesh with three protruding connecting members 243 extending along the edge portion 242 of the rotating upper portion 124 of the rotatable platform 120. Each of the three protruding connecting members 243 also has a central hole therethrough. The protruding end 212 and the protruding connecting member 243 are secured together when co-aligned by a pivot pin received through the central bore.

Two hydraulic rams 130 drive movement of the carriage 110 relative to the rotatable platform 120 between a tilted position and a horizontal position.

As shown in fig. 2A, hydraulic ram 130 extends between a mounting bracket 180 secured to upper surface 112 of carriage 110 and rotating upper portion 124 of rotatable platform 120 for pivoting carriage 110 between a tilted position when hydraulic ram 130 is extended and a horizontal position when hydraulic ram 130 is retracted.

Referring briefly to FIG. 1B, two hydraulic rams 130 extend at least partially along opposite sides of the upper surface 112 of the carriage 110 to pivot the carriage 110 in a controlled and uniform manner.

Turning to fig. 2A, each mounting bracket 180 includes an opening to which a bearing at each end of each hydraulic ram 130 is secured by a pivot pin to pivotally couple mounting bracket 180 and hydraulic rams 130 together.

Referring now to fig. 2A and 2B, the system 100 includes an actuation mechanism 140 for rotating the rotatable platform 120 between the operating position and the storage position.

As best shown in fig. 2B, the actuation mechanism 140 includes: a crank or lever arm 142, the crank or lever arm 142 extending perpendicularly from the central shaft 126, and a hydraulic ram 144, the hydraulic ram 144 pivotally coupled to an outer end of the crank or lever arm 142 and an inner surface of the side wall 232 of the non-rotating lower portion 122 of the rotatable platform 120. The reciprocating movement of hydraulic ram 144 between the extended and retracted positions imparts a rotational movement to central shaft 126 to rotate rotating upper portion 124 (shown in fig. 2A) of rotatable platform 120 relative to non-rotating lower portion 122.

Fig. 3A and 3B illustrate another embodiment of the system 100.

Referring to fig. 3A, in this embodiment, rather than including a plurality of rollers 150 as shown in the previous embodiment, the carriage 110 includes a transport mechanism 310 extending along a centerline of the carriage 110 for transporting small vehicles or bodies onto and off of the carriage 110.

The conveyor mechanism 310 includes a conveyor belt 312, the conveyor belt 312 extending over and between opposing pulleys 314, the opposing pulleys 314 being located at or near each of the

ends

116, 118 of the carriage 110 and supported therebetween by two grooved rollers 316.

The pulleys 314 include a primary pulley 314a located at or near the inner end 118 of the bracket 110 and a tail pulley 314b located at or near the outer end 116 of the bracket 110. The primary pulley 314a is a power or driven pulley operatively associated with an electric motor (not shown) for driving movement of the conveyor belt 312.

The conveyor belt 312 is formed of a plastic and/or rubber material and includes a high friction, textured outer surface to facilitate gripping of a small vehicle or body.

In particular, the outer surface of the conveyor belt 312 includes a plurality of outwardly projecting ridges 318 to assist in gripping a small vehicle or body. The protruding ridges 318 are arranged in opposing or converging diagonal pairs.

As best shown in fig. 3B, the ridges 318 arranged in opposing or converging diagonal pairs define a space 319 therebetween for at least partially receiving a portion or part of a small vehicle or body, such as a keel of a tire or PWC of a motorcycle, to facilitate maintaining the motorcycle or PWC in an upright position when the motorcycle or PWC is unloaded, loaded or stored on the cradle 110.

Fig. 4A to 4F show a simple schematic of a method of loading a jet ski 404 from a body of water 406 onto a swimming platform 402 of a boat using the loading and unloading system 100 described above. The water 406 may be an ocean, beach, river, or lake. The swimming platform 402 of the boat may alternatively be a pontoon, pier, or pier. The boat is omitted from fig. 4A to 4F for clarity. In fig. 4A, the storage position of the handling system 100 with the brackets 110 and the rotatable platform 120 on the swim platform 402 is shown. As described above, the rotatable platform 120 is mounted to the swim platform 402, and the bracket 110 is hingedly connected to the rotatable platform 120. Jet skis 404 are shown floating on water 406. To load the jet skis 404, the rotatable platform 120 is rotated about 90 ° about a vertical axis from the stowed position to the operational position, and the cradle 110 is pivoted from its horizontal position to the inclined position as shown in fig. 4B. Before being driven upward and loaded onto the carrier 110 as shown in fig. 4C, the jet skis 404 are aligned with the inclined position of the carrier 110 as shown in fig. 4B in preparation for loading. The cradle 110, now loaded with the jet skis 404, is then pivoted from the inclined position back to the horizontal position shown in fig. 4D. The platform 120 is then rotated about the vertical axis from the operating position back to the storage position. Fig. 4E shows the platform 120 having rotated about half 90 back to the storage position. Fig. 4F shows the platform 120 has been fully rotated back to the storage position, with the jet skis 404 now stored on the swimming platform 402.

Fig. 5A-5F illustrate another embodiment of a handling system 100 that is substantially similar to the handling system 100 of fig. 1A-3B. The handling system 100 in fig. 5A-5F has: a bracket 110 having an upper surface 112 and an opposite lower surface 114; a rotatable platform 120; two mounting brackets 580; and two hydraulic rams 530. One difference between the handling system 100 shown in fig. 5A-5F and the handling system 100 shown in fig. 1A-3B is that each mounting bracket 580 is secured to the lower surface 114 of the bracket 110, rather than the upper surface 112. Another difference is that the mounting bracket 580 seen in fig. 5A, 5C and 5E is only present on the carrier 110, not on the upper surface of the rotatable platform 120 as shown in fig. 1A and 2A. Yet another difference is that hydraulic rams 530 are located inside rotatable platform 120, while hydraulic rams 130 in fig. 1A-3B are located outside rotatable platform 120. One end of each hydraulic ram 530 is secured to mounting bracket 580, while the other end of hydraulic ram 530 is secured to the interior of rotatable platform 120. Fig. 5A shows the bracket 110 in a horizontal position (solid lines) and an inclined position (partially dashed lines). By way of non-limiting example, the tilt angle Z shown in FIG. 5A is 15 degrees. The angle Z between the horizontal position and the inclined position of the carriage 110 will of course depend on the environment in which the handling system 100 is used, e.g. the vertical height difference between the rotatable platform 120 and the water surface or the ground. Advantageously, having mounting brackets 580 on the lower surface of carriage 110 and hydraulic rams 530 on the interior of rotatable platform 120 provides a more aesthetically pleasing appearance to loading and unloading system 100 shown in fig. 5A through 5F and avoids any opportunity for a user, small vehicle or body (e.g., jet skis) to potentially come into contact with mounting brackets 580/hydraulic rams 530 during the loading, unloading, and storage processes of the small vehicle or body.

In this specification and in the claims, if any, the word "comprise", and its derivatives, including "comprises" and "comprising", include each of the stated integers but do not preclude the inclusion of one or more other integers.

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown or described, since the means herein described comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A handling system for use with a load-bearing vehicle or structure for unloading, loading and storing a small vehicle or body, the system comprising:

a rotatable platform mounted to the load-bearing vehicle or structure to which the carriage is mounted, the platform being rotatable about a vertical axis by at least 90 ° between an operative position in which the carriage is pivotable and a storage position in which the small vehicle or body is stored on the load-bearing vehicle or structure; and

at least one linear actuator for driving movement of the carriage between the inclined position and the horizontal position; and

wherein the rotatable platform comprises:

a non-rotating lower portion secured to the load-bearing vehicle or structure; and

a rotatable upper portion rotatably coupled to the non-rotating lower portion such that the rotatable upper portion rotates relative to the non-rotating lower portion.

2. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the carriage is pivotally mounted to the rotatable upper portion.

3. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the non-rotating lower portion is a circular plate including one or more openings for receiving one or more mechanical fasteners therethrough to secure the plate to the load-bearing vehicle or structure.

4. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the non-rotating lower portion includes at least one sidewall extending upwardly from an edge of the non-rotating lower portion and extending around an entire perimeter of the non-rotating lower portion.

5. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the rotatable upper portion is a plate including at least one sidewall extending downwardly from an edge of the rotatable upper portion and extending at least partially around a perimeter of the rotatable upper portion.

6. The handling system of claim 1, comprising a central shaft extending between the non-rotating lower portion and the rotatable upper portion to rotatably couple the non-rotating lower portion and the rotatable upper portion together.

7. The handling system of claim 6, wherein the central shaft is fixedly mounted to the rotatable upper portion and rotatably coupled to the non-rotating lower portion by a mount comprising a rotational bearing.

8. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the inner end of the bracket is hingedly connected or coupled to the edge portion of the rotatable upper portion;

the rotatable upper edge portion including at least one protruding connecting member having a central aperture therethrough; and

the inner end of the bracket includes at least two projecting connecting members, each connecting member having a central aperture therethrough and being configured to intermesh with the at least one projecting connecting member on the rotatable upper portion and be secured together when in common alignment by at least one pivot pin received through the central aperture.

9. The handling system of claim 1, further comprising an actuation mechanism for rotating the rotatable upper portion relative to the non-rotatable lower portion between the operating position and the storage position.

10. The handling system of claim 9, wherein the actuation mechanism is actuated with a drive system, and wherein the drive system comprises:

a crank or lever arm extending perpendicularly from the central shaft; and

at least one linear actuator pivotally coupled to an outer end of the crank or lever arm and an inner periphery of the non-rotating lower portion.

11. The handling system of claim 10, wherein the drive system includes an actuator selected from the group consisting of:

a reduction gear composed of a worm shaft and a worm wheel; or

A planetary reducer driving the rotatable upper portion between the operating position and the storage position, wherein the planetary reducer is driven manually or by a motor selected from the group consisting of a hydraulic motor, a pneumatic motor, and an electric motor.

12. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the carriage is in the form of a frame comprising:

a pair of U-shaped frame members extending longitudinally between outer and inner ends of the bracket; and

at least three transversely extending transverse frame members for joining the pair of U-shaped frame members together.

13. The handling system of claim 12, wherein each U-shaped frame member comprises:

a pair of nose portions at an inner end of the bracket;

a U-shaped portion located at and defining an outer end of the bracket; and

a pair of frame member portions extending longitudinally between the nose end and the U-shaped portion;

wherein each frame member portion comprises:

an outer frame member portion defining a longitudinal side of the bracket; and

an inner frame member portion extending parallel to the outer frame member portion.

14. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the carriage includes a transport mechanism for transporting small vehicles or bodies onto and off of the carriage, and wherein the transport mechanism extends along a centerline of the carriage.

15. The handling system of claim 14, wherein the conveyor mechanism includes a conveyor belt extending over and between opposing pulleys at or near each end of the carriage and supported therebetween by one or more grooved rollers, and wherein the opposing pulleys include:

a power or driven primary pulley located at or near an inner end of the carriage; and

a tail pulley located at or near an outer end of the carriage.

16. The handling system of claim 15, wherein an outer surface of the conveyor belt includes a plurality of outwardly projecting ridges to assist in gripping the small vehicle or body.

17. The handling system of claim 16, wherein the protruding ridges are arranged in opposing or converging diagonal pairs defining a space therebetween for at least partially receiving a portion or portions of the small vehicle or body.

18. A method of unloading or loading a small vehicle or body from a carrying vehicle or structure using the system of claim 1, the method comprising:

rotationally mounting the bracket to an operating position; and